7-Day Morocco Imperial Cities Tour

Upon arrival at Marrakech Menara Airport, you’ll be greeted by your Morocco Friendly Travel driver, who will transfer you to your riad or hotel in the medina. After check-in, you can relax or take a short walk around Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where the evening atmosphere comes alive with food stalls, musicians, and storytellers. Your driver can recommend nearby restaurants for dinner—perhaps a rooftop spot overlooking the square. The rest of the evening is free to explore at your leisure before retiring to your accommodation.

After breakfast, a licensed local guide (not your driver) will meet you for a full-day guided tour of Marrakech’s historic sites. You’ll visit the Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture; the ruins of El Badi Palace; and the hidden Saadian Tombs, adorned with intricate tilework. Next, you’ll see the iconic Koutoubia Mosque and explore the Ben Youssef Madrasa, an ancient Islamic school with stunning carvings. The tour includes time in the souks, where you can shop for spices, leather, and ceramics. Your guide will leave you in the late afternoon, and your driver can suggest a relaxing hammam or a dinner venue.

Your driver will pick you up after breakfast for the 2.5-hour journey to Rabat, Morocco’s modern capital. Along the way, he’ll share insights about the landscapes and culture. In Rabat, you’ll visit the Hassan Tower and the adjacent Mohammed V Mausoleum, where Morocco’s former kings are buried. Next, you’ll explore the Kasbah of the Udayas, a picturesque blue-and-white fortress by the sea, and stroll through the Andalusian Gardens. Your driver will recommend a seafood restaurant for dinner near the Bouregreg River before dropping you at your hotel.

In the morning, you’ll have free time to revisit Rabat’s sights or explore the Chellah Necropolis, a tranquil ruin complex blending Roman and Islamic history. After lunch, your driver will take you to Meknes (1.5-hour drive). Upon arrival, you can explore independently, visiting Bab Mansour (one of Morocco’s grandest gates), the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, and the sprawling Heri es-Souani granaries. Your driver will suggest a dinner spot in Lahdim Square, Meknes’ lively hub, before you overnight in the city.

After breakfast, your driver will take you to Volubilis, a UNESCO-listed Roman archaeological site (30 minutes from Meknes). You’ll wander among ancient mosaics and arches at your own pace before continuing to Fez (1-hour drive). In Fez, you’ll check into your riad and have the afternoon free. Your driver can recommend a visit to Borj Nord for panoramic city views or the Mellah (Jewish Quarter). Dinner will be at a traditional restaurant in the medina.

A local guide (not your driver) will lead a half-day tour of Fez, starting at the Al Quaraouiyine University, the world’s oldest continuously operating university. You’ll visit the Chouara Tanneries, where leather is dyed in vibrant pits, and the Bou Inania Madrasa, a stunning example of Marinid architecture. After the tour ends around noon, your driver will take you to Casablanca (3-hour drive). Upon arrival, you can visit the Corniche seaside promenade or Morocco Mall. Your driver will recommend dinner spots before your overnight stay.

On your final day, your driver will take you to Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Africa, where you can tour the breathtaking interior (if time allows). A quick photo stop at Rick’s Café (inspired by the classic film) can be arranged before transferring to Mohammed V Airport for your departure.